Let's be honest, people. This race is the Superbowl / Tour de France / World Cup of the running world. Unfortunately (though to be truly honest I never even tried) I will be nothing more than a spectator for this event. Although I'm sure that in itself will be an experience!
Living in Boston Proper this past weekend has, in fact, been insanity. People are everywhere - more so than normal. Humans from all walks of life have come, not only to participate, but to watch the race happen. However, because of the past, the restrictions to be there are quite harsh and totally understandable. Basically, if it can't fit in a pocket, you can't bring it.
So, because I know many of you might be curious, I have decided to dedicate a post to this wondrous race. Here are some things that you might not know about it!
- The Boston Marathon is hosted on Patriots Day, April 19th. (Or the closest Monday to that date.) Patriots Day is a holiday only celebrated by Massachusetts and Maine and was set up in remembrance of the start of the Revolutionary War.
- People from all over the world come to race here. It is not just limited to the United States.
- You must be at least 18 by race day to participate. (If your birthday is race day, then you can still do it.)
- As well as having your typical runner, there are also categories for visually impaired runners, wheelchairs, and hand cycles.
- There are specific marathons you must run that allow you to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
- To make it into the Boston Marathon, there is a time requirement. These are broken down by age group and gender. Making the time restraint doesn't guarantee you a spot in the race. It only guarantees you the opportunity to register for the race.
- The fastest qualifiers of each category are accepted in order to participate in the race until the race is full.
There are many other rules and regulations for runners - but those are the basics you should probably know about the race.
The city just about fully shuts down for this event. (I believe that's why it happens on a holiday.) It's an exciting and busy time for everyone. I can't wait to see it in person.
Good luck, runners!
Until next time,
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